The world of 11+ entrance exams can feel overwhelming for parents and children alike. Beyond the nerves, revision, and school choices, there’s the confusing set of acronyms you’ll see on school websites — GL, CEM, ISEB, CATs… what do they all mean, and how do they differ?
At HRB Education, we’ve guided hundreds of families through this process. In this guide, we’ll explain the main 11+ exam boards, highlight what makes each unique, and share how we can help your child prepare with the right strategies and resources.
GL (Granada Learning) provides exams used by many grammar schools and independent schools. The exact components tested can vary year by year, so it’s vital to double-check what’s required for your chosen schools.
What’s tested?
What this means for parents: Your child will need to cover the whole KS2 syllabus in advance, not just what they’ve done in class by Year 5.
How HRB helps: We ensure students master Year 6 content early through targeted teaching, while also strengthening reasoning skills through carefully chosen practice resources.
CEM exams are designed to be less predictable and harder to “game.” They place a stronger emphasis on vocabulary, problem-solving, and speed.
What’s tested?
What this means for parents: Students need exposure to a wide vocabulary, strong comprehension, and timed practice to build accuracy under pressure.
How HRB helps: We build custom vocab drills, use timed mocks, and teach problem-solving strategies so students feel confident even in fast-paced CEM-style tests.
CEM Select is the online version of the CEM exam. It’s non-adaptive (unlike ISEB), but covers:
What this means for parents: Preparation must cover all four areas, including English comprehension, which is often underestimated.
How HRB helps: We replicate CEM Select conditions in practice sessions and coach students on pacing strategies for online exams.
Many top independent schools use the ISEB Common Pre-Test, taken between October and December of Year 6.
What’s tested?
What this means for parents: Accuracy is everything. Early mistakes keep the student in lower-level questions, limiting their score. Unlike GL or CEM, the ISEB is based on Year 5 curriculum content, but pitched at a challenging level.
How HRB helps: We teach students how to pace themselves, avoid careless errors, and build confidence in adaptive testing. We also provide mock pre-tests so they know exactly what to expect.
While not entrance exams, SATs (Year 6) and CATs (Year 7 Cognitive Ability Tests) still play a role in many schools’ admissions or streaming decisions.
What this means for parents: Even after the 11+, strong performance in these tests matters — particularly for set placement in Year 7, which can influence future GCSE and A-Level opportunities.
How HRB helps: We keep students’ skills sharp beyond the 11+, ensuring momentum carries through to SATs, CATs, and a strong start to secondary school.
No two schools use exactly the same exam setup, and requirements can change year by year. That’s why generic preparation isn’t enough — your child needs a personalised plan.
At HRB Education, we:
📢 Not sure which exams your schools use? Come speak to us today, and we’ll give you clear, tailored guidance on how best to prepare.
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